I like the academy but I think that all clubs should be entitled to develop kids. Dermott Brereton raised the issue on SEN today (https://www.sen.com.au/programs/dwaynes-world/) when he called in specifically to address the issue. While the Next Generation Academies and the Swans Academy are different beasts they do cross similar paths.
I don't think the academy is the issue per se, it's the lack of access other clubs get. I don't have the answer either. Possibly academy kids cannot be matched until later picks in the draft would work but I have no idea. It depends on what the aim is - develop absolute elite players or get more players (read: "later draft picks/role players"). My feeling is the AFL wants the latter while Sydney wants the former.
Sydney are looking to grow the game, unlike the heartland clubs. The vast majority of kids dont make the grade, they even prefer other sports & make there sporting mark elsewhere.
Mills - grandpa was a state level footballer in WA
Ray Mills was a bit more than a State level footballer in his short career.
Young Mills was playing Union when the Swans president convinced his father (a mate) to give Aussie rules a go. He did know of Rays success, call it a canny move by Pridham & in no way diminishes the Swans success.
* Australian Football - Ray Mills - Player Bio
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